The Minooka girls varsity soccer team had a strong performance in the 2021 season, including winning the regional title.

Minooka finished with a 9-3-1 record and a 8-2-1 conference record. Minooka had a top 5 offense and the second best defense in conference, only allowing 15 goals. Minooka also had two shutout games last year versus Yorkville and Joliet Central.

Going into the 2022 seasn will be a challenging start with many seniors graduating.  Junior forward Ella Rucka, junior midfielder Cayla Koranda and junior defender Teagon Sanderson will return this year in hopes to take the team to sectionals.

Sanderson and Rucka said they look forward to connecting and playing with the new team.

“Connecting with the team. There’s a lot of talent I think this year,” Sanderson said on what she looks forward to.

Minooka wants to keep a strong defense with new senior goalie Kinzie Caves.

Minooka will also look to improve offensively through communication and connections.

“Depends on how well we connect and get to know each other,” Rucka said.

Last year they defeated Moline to win the regional.

“Last year we made it to sectionals and I think we can go farther. We just need to work on communication,” Sanderson said.

Minooka opened its season on March 14 with a 6-0 loss to Plainfield North. Their home opener is March 23 against Joliet Catholic Academy. This year due to fewer Covid-19 concerns, they will play non-conference games and a tournament.